What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reconstruction
Example
The city began the reconstruction of the bridge after it was damaged in the storm. [reconstruction: noun]
Example
The team is working on reconstructing the company's financial records after the data breach. [reconstructing: gerund or present participle]
renovation
Example
We're planning a renovation of our kitchen to make it more spacious and modern. [renovation: noun]
Example
The hotel underwent a major renovation to update its facilities and improve guest experience. [renovated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Renovation is more commonly used than reconstruction in everyday language. Renovation is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, from home improvement projects to commercial property upgrades. Reconstruction, on the other hand, is typically used in more specific contexts, such as disaster recovery or historical preservation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reconstruction and renovation?
Both reconstruction and renovation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but renovation is generally associated with a more positive and modern connotation, while reconstruction may have a more serious or urgent tone due to its association with disaster recovery or historical preservation.